Fengyang Tea House: A Cultural Experience of Dali’s "Three-Course Tea"

In Dali’s ancient town, there is a unique tea culture experience known as the "Three-Course Tea." This traditional hospitality ritual originates from the Bai ethnic group, symbolizing the journey of life and the philosophy of transitioning from bitterness to sweetness. Fengyang Tea House is an excellent place to experience this culture.

Tucked away among the trees at the foot of the Cangshan Mountain, Fengyang Tea House features an outdoor area paved with stone bricks and furnished with wooden tables and chairs. Each table is shaded by a sun umbrella woven from thatch, creating a rustic and tranquil atmosphere for tea enthusiasts. The courtyard is surrounded by lush forests and adorned with a white swing covered in flowers, adding a touch of romance.

The interior of the tea house is equally rich in Bai ethnic characteristics. A round stone tea stove stands at the center of the hall, surrounded by various teapots, tea sets, and decorations. On the wall hangs a plaque inscribed with "Bai Ethnic Three-Course Tea," while another plaque reads, "First bitter, second sweet, third aftertaste," capturing the essence of the Three-Course Tea.

At Fengyang Tea House, you can fully experience the Bai ethnic Three-Course Tea ritual. The first course is "Bitter Tea," brewed in a small clay pot over charcoal fire, resulting in a strong and bitter flavor. The second course is "Sweet Tea," made with walnut slices, rushan (a local dairy product), and brown sugar, offering a sweet and fragrant taste. The final course is "Aftertaste Tea," infused with ingredients like Sichuan peppercorns and ginger slices. After sipping, a tingling sensation lingers on the tip of the tongue, gradually transforming into a refreshing sweetness.

Fengyang Tea House is not just a place to enjoy tea but also a serene space where one can slow down and immerse themselves in Bai culture and life philosophy. If you visit Dali, be sure to stop by and experience the unique taste of life brought by the Three-Course Tea.
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Post by Yongzhe | Sep 3, 2025